Greg T

Could someone please tell me what the difference is between flake, atomised, fine, and coarse aluminium and what the different varieties are used for when making fireworks. How do they differ in performance?

I see Labpak sell the coarse and fine variety and that 'Alec Tiranti' sells the atomised variety.


Could you also tell me whether it is more adviseable to use coarse or fine iron filings (or does it depend on what you're using the iron filings for?).


Thanks,

Greg

I know this is a very boring question but:

Does anyone know whether the laws regulating the manufacture of fireworks (as a hobby) would change if we were to join the European constitution?

Would the changes be good or bad for us enthusiasts?


Greg T

Afternoon all!

I am new to these forums and to pyrotechnics.

I enjoyed watching fireworks from a very early age, and as a result of my enthusiasm for fireworks our November 5th celebrations seem to get bigger and bigger each year!

I attended a training session with Shellscape Pyrotechnics Ltd. last Summer which taught the basics re firing techniques and safety. It also briefly introduced me to the world of cat. 4 fireworks (ie. how mortars work etc.) and also to the different types of fusing available on the market.

Since then, I have been very eager to create my own dazzling effects (perhaps starting on fountains and then working my way up to more complex/ demanding projects such as roman candles/ shells etc.).
I have bought Tom Peregrin's 'Introductory Practical Pyrotechnics' which I have found extremely interesting and, more to the point, very safety conscious (which is probably a good thing seeing as I am a complete beginner).

But, before I go any further and spend all my savings on ball mills, chemicals and other pyro equipment, I would like to know if anyone has ever written to their local council in order to inform them of their pyrotechnic ambitions and to seek the council's approval. I would never forgive myself if, after buying all the necessary equipment and starting out on my first project, I was given a visit by the local police in order to check why I had been buying chemicals, to rob me of all my equipment and, worst still, to throw me into a cell for the next X years.

By communicating with the council, do you think I will just be attracting unnecessary amounts of attention towards my doorstep, or will it be beneficial?

I have read all other advice for beginners that has been shared on the forum and have found it all very useful.

So - should I go ahead and dive into the pyrotechnic abyss? Or should I stay on the right side of the law to ensure that I do not end up T. Blair's list of wanted terrorists?

Have a good weekend all!!


Greg T